Hello! I hope you are doing well and staying safe. Personally, I love cooking and often prepare something for tea in the evening, whether it be a sweet treat or a savory snack. Today, I decided to make a local dessert called "Helapa" for our tea time. Here's how I made it
Helapa is a traditional Sri Lankan snack that is typically made with finger millet flour, coconut, sugar, and salt. This snack is not only delicious but also offers a number of health benefits. Helapa should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Ingredients
Kenda leaves ( Macaranga peltata leaves)
🌱As most of you are europeans I have use Banana leaves instant of Kanda Leaves.
🌱If you can not find none of the above, can use Aluminum Foil for steam.
500g Finger Millet floor (Ragi)
200g Grated Coconut
200g Brown Sugar
1tsp Salt
1 cup of Water
Instructions
To make Helapa, start by placing finger millet flour in a bowl and adding a teaspoon of salt powder. Mix everything together thoroughly.
Next, add sugar and grated coconut to the mixture and stir well to combine.
Gradually add water to the mixture, stirring continuously until it forms a non-sticky consistency. Shape the mixture into small balls.
Clean Macaranga peltata leaves thoroughly and thinly slice the pre-made small balls to wrap them in the leaves.
Steam the Helapa balls for around 15 to 20 minutes. While traditionally Kenda leaves are used for steaming, you can also use a rice cooker, banana leaves or foil paper.
After steaming, the Helapa is ready to enjoy with your evening tea. This dessert is an easy, convenient and affordable option for anyone with a sweet tooth.
Next time you're looking for a quick and easy dessert, give Helapa a try and impress your friends and family with this authentic Sri Lankan delicacy!
